Single jersey, interlock and rib explained

Short answer: The three words describe how the fabric is knitted. Single jersey is thin and curls at the edge, interlock is thicker and does not curl, and rib stretches the most.

Single jersey

The most used knit for t-shirts. It is light and has a smooth face and a different back. The edge curls if it is not sewn.

Interlock

Two layers of jersey knitted together. The fabric is thicker, the same on both sides and does not curl at the edge.

Rib

Knitted with vertical ridges, which makes the fabric very stretchy. Used for ribbed edges at the neck, sleeves and waist.

Where they are used

Single jersey for t-shirts, interlock for closer-fitting underwear, and rib for edges. See bamboo vest for men.

What you can feel

Interlock feels firmer, single jersey lighter. Both can be comfortable, but they are used for different things.

The edge tells you

If the edge of a top curls, it is knitted in single jersey. That is neither good nor bad, but it explains the behaviour.

See also

More on the material in bamboo jersey.

For underwear

Underwear often uses a firmer knit, because it has to lie flat and not curl. See bamboo underwear for women.

Frequently asked questions

Which knit is best?

It depends on the use. Single jersey is light, interlock is firmer and more opaque.

Why does the edge of my t-shirt curl?

Because it is knitted in single jersey. That is the nature of the fabric.

What is rib used for?

Edges at the neck, sleeves and waist, where the fabric has to stretch and pull back again.